Arapahoe County Estate Records Search
Arapahoe County probate court records document estate settlements and protective proceedings in the Denver metro area. These records are maintained by the 18th Judicial District Court at the Arapahoe County Justice Center in Centennial. The files include wills, estate inventories, guardianship appointments, and conservatorship orders. Arapahoe County residents can access probate records through the court's online systems or by visiting the courthouse in person.
Arapahoe County Probate Court Location
The Arapahoe County Justice Center serves as the main courthouse for probate matters. The facility is located at 7325 South Potomac Street in Centennial. This modern building houses all court divisions for the county.
The main court telephone number is 303-645-6600. This line reaches the clerk's office for general inquiries. For records requests specifically, email ArapahoeRecordsRequest@judicial.state.co.us. This dedicated email address handles all record copy requests.
The Arapahoe County Justice Center houses the District Court handling probate matters.
Arapahoe County is the sole county in the 18th Judicial District. This gives the court focused jurisdiction over all local probate cases. The District Court handles estates, guardianships, and conservatorships. No other counties share this judicial district.
The Justice Center operates during standard business hours. Monday through Friday access is available for file review. Call ahead to confirm record availability. Some older files may require advance notice to retrieve.
How to Find Arapahoe County Probate Records
Several methods exist for locating probate records in Arapahoe County. The right approach depends on your specific needs and timeline.
The court maintains an online presence at arapahoecountycourt.org. This website offers case search capabilities. You can look up probate matters by name or case number. Basic information is available immediately. Document images require direct court contact.
The Arapahoe County Court website provides online case search and court forms.
The statewide docket search at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets covers Arapahoe County cases. This free tool shows filing dates, case status, and party names. It helps identify whether a probate case exists before requesting copies.
In-person visits provide full access to case files. Go to the Clerk of Court office at the Justice Center. Staff will retrieve the file for your review. You can request copies of any documents needed. Same-day service is often available for recent cases.
Historical records from 1902 through 1967 are stored at the Colorado State Archives. Contact the Archives for cases from this period. Their database is searchable online at archives.colorado.gov/archives-search.
Types of Arapahoe County Probate Court Records
Arapahoe County probate courts handle diverse case types. Each generates specific documentation. Understanding these categories helps target your search.
Estate administration cases settle affairs after death. The court supervises asset distribution to heirs and creditors. Case files include original wills, property inventories, creditor notices, and accountings. These documents reveal the full scope of the deceased's holdings.
The Arapahoe County Trial Court page provides official court information and resources.
Colorado offers two probate paths. Informal probate works when no disputes exist. The process is administrative rather than judicial. Formal probate requires court hearings and judicial oversight. This route applies when conflicts arise or will validity is questioned.
Guardianship cases protect individuals who cannot care for themselves. Conservatorship cases manage financial affairs for protected persons. Both require ongoing court supervision. Records detail the protected person's condition and financial status.
Small estate procedures exist for simpler cases. When an estate values under $80,000, heirs may use an affidavit procedure. This avoids full probate. The Colorado Probate Code Section 15-12-1201 outlines these simplified procedures.
Historical Arapahoe County Probate Records
Older probate files from Arapahoe County reside at the Colorado State Archives. These records span from 1902 to 1967. Genealogists and historians frequently request these documents.
The Archives database includes probate case information from this period. Search by the deceased person's name at archives.colorado.gov/archives-search. The system shows whether the Archives holds a file for that individual.
To obtain copies, note the case number and year from the database. Contact the Archives with this information. Copy fees apply based on page count. Certification is available for an additional charge.
Cases filed after 1967 remain at the courthouse. The District Court maintains these files on-site. Contact the court directly for access.
Requesting Arapahoe County Probate Records
The court offers multiple ways to request probate records. Each has distinct advantages.
Email is efficient for most requests. Send inquiries to ArapahoeRecordsRequest@judicial.state.co.us. Include complete case details in your message. Provide names, dates, and case numbers. Staff will respond with next steps.
The online records request form provides another option. Access it at coloradojudicial.gov/recorddocument-request-form. Complete all required fields. Submit the form electronically. The court will contact you regarding payment and pickup or mailing options.
In-person requests work well for urgent needs. Visit the Justice Center during business hours. The clerk can locate files quickly. Copies are often available while you wait. Bring identification and payment method.
Mail requests are accepted but slower. Send detailed letters to 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, CO 80112. Include complete case information. Enclose payment for estimated fees. Allow adequate processing time.
Nearby Counties
Arapahoe County sits in the Denver metropolitan area. Several surrounding counties handle similar probate matters.